It involves identifying and evaluating possible hazards and risks that may stem from a product throughout all stages of its life cycle. The risk potential is assessed in relation to employees, the neighbourhood, customers and the environment. The aim is then to avoid or at least minimise these risks to ensure people’s safety.

Procurement

Responsible conduct towards people and the environment starts with the purchase of raw materials and supplies. We only select suppliers that display the same commitment to safety, health, environment and quality as we do and are able to back this up with hard facts. One example is the documented quality management concept.

We have drawn up a product list specifying the gases that are subject to this screening. By the same token, our customers can expect support from us around the clock. Should any problems with gas cylinders arise outside business hours or during the weekend, our emergency teams are on hand to prevent accidents, such as those that might result from leaks.

Expert disposal and recycling

At Linde, our responsibility extends beyond the use of gases at customer sites. It also involves proper disposal of surplus gases, like the leftover CO2 when storage facilities and tanks are dismantled or tested. We are the only gases manufacturer with our own vehicle specially designed to empty CO2 for this purpose.

We also encourage customers to return surplus gases, cylinders and valves, or offer our services to help them recycle and reuse gases in an appropriate manner.

New product introduction

Launching new products usually involves entering uncharted territory and therefore requires particular care and diligence. We have developed a new product introduction (NPI) process that defines the steps that need to be taken before a product is released for sale.

Customers

We provide training to customers on the safe handling and transport of gases, covering topics such as current regulations (Globally Harmonised System) governing the labelling of cylinders and hazardous goods, transport documentation and secure loading and stowage.